Christmas Ribbon Angels

These angels can be made of any kind of ribbon, lace or fabric.  The lace should be a stiff lace.  I’ve used velvet or velveteen, which works beautifully as well.  Just make sure you use a ribbon that holds the accordion folds.  Once you master this, you can knock one out in about ten minutes.  

Supplies:
Two feet of 3-inch (#40) ribbon (stiff lace or velvet or velveteen work well)
18mm wood head bead (this is a wooden head with a face on it and a hole through it)
One 12-inch gold glitter stem (pipe cleaner)
Fine gold wire (this comes in a spool like thread)
One 16mm or 18mm gold crown (these look like the caps on a Christmas ball)
(All of these supplies can be found in a craft store.)

Cut the gold stem in half and set one half aside.  Form one end of the stem into a ¾” circle, twisting to close (this is the halo).  Push the other end of the stem through the hole in the crown, and then through the hold in the wooden head and push together so the crown sits on the head.  You will now have about 2-inches of stem below the head.

Cut the ribbon into one 12” length for the body and two 6” lengths for the wings.  Accordion fold the 12” piece into ½” pleats.  Slip the glitter stem into the middle of the folds.  Work with wire directly from spool.  Leaving 3” extra wire sticking out in the back, wrap wire once or twice around the lace about ¼” below head.  Do not cut wire.  Accordion fold 6” pieces of ribbon.  Hold lengthwise on each side of angel and wrap wire around middle to secure.  

Take remaining piece of gold stem and form into a bow.  Place on front of angel and wrap wire around bow once.  This will conceal the rest of the wire.  At back, cut wire from spool, leaving a long enough piece to make a hanging loop, twisting with 3” piece you left at beginning.  

Once you master this, you will find yourself getting very creative.  You can make all lace angels, velvet angels with lace wings, or velvet angels with pearls sewn on hem of dress.  I’ve also used ribbon for the bow instead of the gold stems.  You can use these as tree ornaments or as package decoration.  They make wonderful inexpensive gifts, as well.  

Happy Angel Making!